Rod Stewart Stages Political Statement at Glastonbury After Reform Backing, Performs with Rock Legends Amid Bob Vylan’s ‘Appalling’ Anti-Israel Chant Controversy

Rod Stewart Rocks Glastonbury with Legendary Set and Political Messages

Rod Stewart, 80, delivered a memorable performance during Glastonbury’s Pyramid Stage Legends slot on Sunday, just hours after voicing support for Nigel Farage’s Reform Party. The rock icon brought out special guests, addressed global conflicts, and sparked divided reactions from fans.

Star-Studded Collaborations
Kicking off his set with Tonight I’m Yours, Rod welcomed Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, 78, for a lively rendition of Stay With Me. The duo shared the mic, with Wood dazzling the crowd with a guitar solo. Later, Scottish singer Lulu, 76, joined them in a glittering white fringe ensemble, energizing fans with Hot Legs. Simply Red’s Mick Hucknall also made a surprise appearance, adding to the nostalgic vibe.

[Image: Rod and Ronnie Wood performing, captioned: Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood reunited onstage for a fiery performance.]

Political Statements
Amid Glastonbury’s politically charged atmosphere, Rod dedicated a cover of The O’Jays’ Love Train to Ukraine, urging the crowd not to forget the ongoing war. His message followed controversial chants by punk duo Bob Vylan, who earlier called for “Death to the IDF” and “Free Palestine,” prompting a police investigation. Meanwhile, singer JADE led anti-Reform Party chants during her set, criticizing welfare cuts and arms sales.

[Image: Rod addressing the crowd, captioned: Stewart dedicated ‘Love Train’ to Ukraine, highlighting global conflicts.]

Fan Reactions: Love or Loathe
Viewers were split on Rod’s performance. Supporters praised his energy at 80, calling him a “total legend” and praising his showmanship. Critics, however, compared him to a “tribute act” and criticized his vocals. Social media buzzed with comments like, “He’s still got it!” versus “Painful to watch.”

[Image: Crowd cheering, captioned: Fans divided over Rod’s Glastonbury performance.]

Family Support and Personal Touches
Rod’s wife, Penny Lancaster, 54, and their sons Alistair, 19, and Aiden, 14, cheered him on from the sidelines. Penny sported a boho-chic look, while Alistair donned a leopard-print coat. Rod paid tribute to Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis, 88, who was wheeled onstage by his daughter for an emotional hug. The set closed with I Am Sailing, as backup singers wore Celtic FC jerseys—a nod to Rod’s beloved team.

[Image: Penny Lancaster at Glastonbury, captioned: Rod’s wife Penny and sons showed their support backstage.]

Political Flip-Flops
Earlier, Rod criticized PM Keir Starmer for allegedly “handing Scottish fishing rights back to the EU” and expressed frustration with the Conservatives. He endorsed Reform’s Nigel Farage, stating, “We’ve got to give him a chance.” This marked a shift from his past Labour leanings, though he admitted, “The country will survive… It could be worse. We could be in the Gaza Strip.”

Legacy and Controversy
Despite mixed reviews, Rod’s set celebrated his five-decade career, blending hits like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy? with heartfelt ballads. Whether seen as a “drunk grandad” or a timeless showman, his Glastonbury slot proved he’s still a master of spectacle.

[Image: Rod in a sailor hat, captioned: Rod closed with ‘I Am Sailing,’ sporting nautical flair.]

In true Glastonbury spirit, Rod Stewart’s performance blended music, politics, and nostalgia—leaving an indelible mark on the festival’s 2025 lineup.

(Word count: ~600)